A 3-star prospect in the recruiting class of 2010 with an athlete designation, unranked by Rivals.

Was a running-style quarterback in high school before moving to defense as a freshman at Louisville.

Moved to linebacker initially, then to defensive end.

2013 American Athletic Conference Defensive Player of the Year.

Ratings Chart

Graph made at nces.ed.gov.

Overall

Marcus Smith is an edge player who burst onto the scene as a senior. He was the wild card in head coach Charlie Strong’s hand. Smith’s versatility allowed Strong to move him all over the field and give opposing offenses fits. Smith played on the edge, from the interior and even lined up over slot receivers.

He translates as that type of linebacker in the NFL. His size and frame could tempt a team to build him into a 4-3 defensive end as well. Smith’s explosive movements and instincts make him a high-upside pass-rusher. If his pass-rush repertoire and hand usage can be developed by an NFL coaching staff, he could become a high-level edge-defender on Sundays.